SkillsUSA is the #1 workforce development organization for students. We empower students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members.
Representing more than 442,000 career and technical education students and teachers, SkillsUSA chapters thrive in middle schools, high schools and college/postsecondary institutions nationwide. Our mission is accomplished through the SkillsUSA Framework of Personal Skills, Workplace Skills and Technical Skills Grounded in Academics, which is integrated into classroom curriculum.
Through the Framework, SkillsUSA students hone their hands-on skills against current industry standards in more than 130 occupational areas, from 3D Animation to Welding and nearly everything in between. At the same time, they develop the transformative career-readiness skills — teamwork, communication, professionalism, leadership and more — that fuel career and life success.
A vital solution to the ongoing skills gap, where more highly skilled jobs are available than skilled professionals ready to fill them, SkillsUSA has served over 15 million diverse, difference-making members since 1965.
SkillsUSA is America’s proud champion of the skilled trades. Our mission is to empower students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members.
SkillsUSA’s vision is to produce the most highly skilled workforce in the world, providing every member the opportunity for career success.
The success of SkillsUSA’s mission depends on the commitment of our staff and stakeholders to the following values:
We are consistent and authentic in word and action to each other, our members and the communities we serve.
Respect is foundational. Our self-awareness precedes our ability to connect with each other and our members while mutually valuing our unique experiences.
We are accountable to the whole of our organization, from internal staff to our diverse group of stakeholders. Through listening, learning and acting, we engage in our shared commitment to realizing a collective vision.
We value and belong to a diverse community. We strive to do our best in service through continuous reflection and growth.
SkillsUSA acts through the willing service of staff and committed volunteers to empower its members and their communities to reach their highest potential.
Heritage and Awareness months provide us with opportunities to recognize, celebrate, and learn from the cultures, histories, and contributions of the varied communities that comprise this nation’s workforce. By honoring heritage months we reinforce our commitment to cultivating a vibrant environment that values the richness of every individual’s background and experiences. Below, we highlight some key heritage months and their significance, drawing connections to our core messages and the importance of fostering a diverse workforce.
As SkillsUSA, we are committed to embracing the values represented by each heritage month through the celebration of these communities, histories, and contributions.
Black History Month is an annual celebration that honors the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history. By recognizing and amplifying the stories of Black leaders, inventors, artists, and activists, we highlight the vital role they have played in shaping our society. Embracing this heritage month underscores our dedication to fostering racial equity and promoting equal opportunities for all individuals.
Women’s History Month celebrates the social, cultural, and political achievements of women. It reminds us of the significant contributions women have made throughout history, often in the face of immense adversity. By acknowledging and uplifting women’s accomplishments, we reinforce our commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in the workforce.
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month recognizes the rich diversity and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. This heritage month provides an opportunity to celebrate the cultures, traditions, and achievements of these communities. By honoring AAPI Month, we emphasize our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that values the perspectives and experiences of individuals from diverse Asian and Pacific Islander backgrounds.
Pride Month is a time to celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community, promoting inclusivity and acceptance. By recognizing Pride Month, we demonstrate our dedication to creating a safe and welcoming space for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Embracing diversity within our workforce strengthens our collective ability to innovate and succeed.
Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the contributions, cultures, and histories of Hispanic and Latinx communities. By recognizing the achievements of individuals with Hispanic heritage, we honor their rich traditions and acknowledge the positive impact they have had on society. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month aligns with our commitment to fostering a diverse workforce that embraces individuals from all backgrounds.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month promotes awareness and inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the workforce. By acknowledging this month, we emphasize our commitment to creating accessible workplaces and providing equal opportunities for individuals of all abilities. Celebrating this heritage month aligns with our goal of fostering an inclusive workforce that values the talents and contributions of everyone.
American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month provides an opportunity to appreciate and learn from the traditions, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. By celebrating this heritage month, we recognize the importance of preserving and valuing Native American history and culture. Acknowledging the achievements and resilience of Native communities contributes to the overall diversity and inclusivity of our workforce.
National Veterans and Military Families Month is dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifices of veterans and their families. Recognizing the contributions and experiences of veterans within our workforce fosters a sense of gratitude and respect. By supporting and providing opportunities for veterans, we contribute to a workforce that values the unique skills and perspectives they bring to the table.
SkillsUSA’s mission is accomplished through the SkillsUSA Framework of Personal Skills, Workplace Skills and Technical Skills Grounded in Academics. The foundation for everything we do, the Framework is the blueprint for career-readiness. It’s a common language for students to explain to their peers, employers, school administrators and parents what they gain from SkillsUSA.
A total of 17 “Essential Elements” are divided among the Framework’s three components. What’s an Essential Element? It’s a specific skill identified as crucial to success by the more than 1,000 industry partners who helped create the Framework.
SkillsUSA strives to ensure inclusive participation in all of our programs, partnerships and employment opportunities. We strive to make all members, partners and employees feel welcomed and valued in the SkillsUSA family. SkillsUSA believes in treating all people with respect and dignity. We want SkillsUSA to be regarded as a membership organization of choice that encourages all individuals to be involved.
SkillsUSA is committed to a learning and working environment free from all forms of discrimination. SkillsUSA prohibits any discrimination, within any program or activity, including on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, gender transition status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or marital status as required by law. Retaliation against any person who reports or participates as a witness in the investigation of a discrimination and/or harassment complaint is strictly prohibited.
Filing a Complaint
To report discrimination, bias or harassment, you may submit your concerns through our online form. If you’d prefer to mail your concerns, use this printable form.
Mail responses to:
Human Resources Manager
673 Potomac Station Dr., PMB #809 Leesburg, VA 20176
View our SkillsUSA Code of Conduct for members who attend our state and national conferences.
